Avalanche Forecast

Issued: Dec 16th, 2012 3:00PM

The alpine rating is moderate, the treeline rating is low, and the below treeline rating is low. Known problems include Wind Slabs and Deep Persistent Slabs.

jeremy.mackenzie, Alberta Parks

Kananaskis.

Good skiing can still be found in sheltered areas, but you really have to look for it as there has been a lot of recent wind damage.

Summary

Confidence

Good

Weather Forecast

Between 10 and 15cm of snow are possible through Monday. Winds will be moderate from the SW with temperatures near -12 in the alpine.

Avalanche Summary

Nothing observed.

Snowpack Summary

Trace to 4cm of new snow overnight. Variable hard and soft wind slabs in alpine and isolated areas at treeline.

Problems

Wind Slabs

Wind slabs are highly variable in their depth and distribution, but are prominent in alpine areas and isolated locations at treeline. Cross-loaded features and terrain immediately below ridgecrests are possible trigger points.

Avoid lee and cross-loaded terrain near ridge crests.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

2 - 5

Deep Persistent Slabs

This layer is prevalent throughout the forecast area and is buried 100cm on average. Field tests are showing a decrease in activity on this layer but it should not be forgotten. Thin spots may be areas where light loads could trigger this interface.

Be aware of thin areas that may propagate to deeper instabilites.>

Aspects: North, North East, East, South East, South.

Elevations: Alpine, Treeline.

Likelihood

Unlikely - Possible

Expected Size

3 - 6

Valid until: Dec 17th, 2012 2:00PM